The port visit to enhance U.S.-Senegal relations as the two nations work together for a stable, secure and prosperous region.

“We are excited to meet with key leaders to build partnerships for peace and regional stability. I am looking forward to meeting many new friends and exploring the rich cultural heritage of the area, as is the crew. They’re also looking forward to supporting community relations in the area”, said Capt. Robert Aguilar, Commanding Officer of USS Mount Whitney.

Sailors and Military Sealift Command (MSC) civil service mariners plan to participate in a community relations event with a local school.

USS Mount Whitney is on a deployment in the U.S. 6th Fleet area of responsibility in support of the international collaborative capacity-building program Africa Partnership Station (APS), U.S. Naval Forces Africa’s flagship maritime security cooperation program. The focus of APS is to build maritime safety and security by increasing maritime domain awareness, response capabilities and infrastructure.

This port visit provides us with an opportunity to meet with the people of Dakar and to experience the rich history and culture of Senegal.

The U.S. and Senegal share an interest in security of the seas, which helps counter problems such as trafficking of people and illegal material, oil bunkering, drug trade, illegal fishing, and piracy.

U.S. 6th Fleet, headquartered in Naples, Italy, conducts the full spectrum of joint and naval operations, often in concert with allied and interagency partners, in order to advance U.S. national interests and security and stability in Europe and Africa.